This World’s Best Brown Sugar Ham is a delightful dinner recipe perfect for holidays like Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving. It features a moist spiral-cut ham glazed with a sticky-sweet pineapple and brown sugar sauce, enhanced by Dijon mustard and a hint of cinnamon. The result is a flavorful and tender ham that’s sure to impress your guests.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

10-pound spiral-cut ham
20-ounce can of pineapple tidbits (including juice)
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cinnamon stick

Directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the pineapple tidbits with juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon stick.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until thickened, about 10–15 minutes.
Brush 3/4 of the glaze over and between the layers of the ham.
Bake the ham for 90 minutes.
Remove the ham from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over it before serving.

Nutrients

Per serving (based on 18–20 servings):

Calories: 404 kcal
Protein: 56g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 161mg
Sodium: 2487mg
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g

Why Brown Sugar Ham Is a Popular Choice

Brown sugar ham has been a staple at holiday tables for years, and its popularity continues to grow. The reasons for its enduring popularity are numerous. First and foremost, ham is an incredibly versatile meat. It pairs well with a wide variety of flavors, from sweet to savory. The natural saltiness of the ham beautifully complements the sweetness of the glaze, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that people can’t get enough of.

Additionally, ham is relatively easy to prepare. Unlike other meats that may require hours of attention or complex cooking methods, ham is usually pre-cooked, meaning it only requires reheating and glazing. This makes it a time-saving option for busy hosts who still want to serve a show-stopping dish.

In many cultures, ham has a long-standing association with celebrations. It’s often the centerpiece of holiday meals, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. The tradition of serving ham at special occasions dates back to ancient times, and this recipe is a modern twist on a classic that continues to bring people together around the dinner table.

The Science Behind the Perfect Glaze

A great glaze is the secret to an unforgettable ham, and this recipe’s glaze is truly something special. The combination of brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon creates a rich, caramelized coating that sticks to the ham’s exterior and seeps into the meat.

The brown sugar in the glaze acts as a natural sweetener, caramelizing as it cooks and creating a glossy, sticky layer that gives the ham its characteristic shine. Pineapple juice not only adds sweetness but also provides a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the ham. The Dijon mustard provides a hint of sharpness that balances out the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. Finally, the cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic note that makes this dish feel like a comforting holiday favorite.

The key to a successful glaze is timing. If it’s cooked too long, the sugar can burn and turn bitter, so it’s important to simmer it just long enough to thicken and become syrupy. As the glaze cooks, it releases its natural sugars and infuses the ham with its rich flavor. The glaze also helps to keep the ham moist, ensuring that each slice is tender and juicy.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Ham

Although this recipe is simple, there are a few tips that can help ensure your ham turns out perfectly every time.

Choose the Right Ham: A high-quality spiral-cut ham is recommended for this recipe. Look for one that is moist and tender. Since the ham is pre-cooked, you don’t need to worry about cooking it all the way through; the goal is to reheat it and glaze it, ensuring that it remains juicy and flavorful.
Use a Roasting Pan: A roasting pan is ideal for cooking ham because it allows for even heat distribution. Make sure to place the ham cut side down in the pan so it retains moisture while baking.
Don’t Overcook the Ham: Since spiral-cut hams are already cooked, you only need to heat them through. Overcooking can cause the ham to dry out, so it’s best to keep an eye on the cooking time and remove it from the oven once it’s heated through and the glaze is caramelized.
Baste Frequently: For the best results, baste the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes. This ensures that the glaze coats the ham evenly and that it absorbs all of the flavors. If you have extra glaze, you can also serve it on the side for added flavor.
Let the Ham Rest: Once the ham is done, let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping each slice moist and tender.

Pairing Ideas for the World’s Best Brown Sugar Ham

This ham is delicious on its own, but it can be even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some pairing ideas that will elevate your meal:

Roasted Vegetables: The sweet, savory ham pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. These veggies can be cooked in the same oven as the ham for convenience and added flavor.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that complements the richness of the ham. Consider adding garlic, butter, or cheese to elevate the flavor.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra glaze. Serve them warm alongside the ham for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with citrus, berries, or tropical fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ham.
Green Bean Almondine: The crispness of green beans and the crunch of toasted almonds offer a delightful texture contrast to the tender ham.

How to Serve and Present the Ham

When serving a large ham, presentation is key. To make your ham look as good as it tastes, consider the following tips:

Carve the Ham Properly: Since spiral-cut hams are pre-sliced, they’re easy to carve. Simply cut along the pre-sliced lines for neat, even slices. Arrange the slices on a platter, fanning them out to create a beautiful presentation.
Garnish the Ham: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be used as a garnish to add color and fragrance to the dish. You can also serve the ham with fruit like pineapples or oranges, which complement the glaze and add visual appeal.
Serve with Extra Glaze: If you have leftover glaze, serve it in a small bowl on the side for guests to add more flavor to their slices.

Nutritional Information

While this ham is undeniably delicious, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content, especially when preparing it for a large group. A single serving of brown sugar ham can be quite rich, offering a significant amount of protein and fat. However, it’s also relatively high in sodium due to the cured nature of the ham. If you’re looking to make the dish healthier, consider using a leaner cut of ham or reducing the amount of glaze you use. As with any dish, moderation is key to enjoying it as part of a balanced meal.

Conclusion

The World’s Best Brown Sugar Ham is the epitome of holiday comfort food. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, this ham is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next festive gathering. Whether you’re serving it for Christmas, Easter, or any other special occasion, it’s a dish that will make memories and leave everyone coming back for seconds.

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